About this Species

Scales along back are weakly keeled. A large, shiny black snake, with white upper lip, chin and throat. Belly is white or creamy yellow with indistinct black blotches on the forward portion changing to mottled white, yellow, gray or brown on the hind portion of the body. Young have patterned body with light gray, dark brown to black blotches on back and sides, with black band between eyes extending down to corner of mouth. Adults average 42-72 inches in length.

Range:

Statewide.

Habits and Habitat:

Forests and woodlands; an excellent climber. Active from March-November. Breeds April-May and lays from 5-20 eggs in June that hatch early autumn. Kills prey by constriction; feeds on rats, mice, birds and bird eggs. Will vibrate tail when threatened.